Page 285 - Manifest September 2024

Lot No. 170

MANJIT BAWA

1941-2008
UNTITLED
54 x 42 in (137.2 x 106.7 cm)
Oil on canvas
1988
Signed & Dated: Verso
` 3,00,00,000 - 4,00,00,000
$ 365,854 - 487,805
Provenance: Property from a collection
based in Mumbai

Manjit Bawa drew deep inspiration from Indian
classical artistic traditions, skillfully blending
elements from various genres and periods into
his work. His mastery of colour and space results
in captivating compositions. In pieces like the
presented lot, Bawa simplifies figuration to its
essence, prioritizing the figure over the narrative.
He explores the rich palettes of miniature painting
traditions, creating fields of colour that appear
untouched by brushwork. By elevating colour and
form, Bawa’s work eliminates unnecessary detail,
favouring an ambiguous, horizon-less space that
invites contemplation.